Let’s be real: bathrooms can be a bit of a black hole for clutter. It’s where all the products go to fade away—often half-used and forgotten. You might think, “I’ll get to that later,” but let’s face it, later often turns into never. So, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the stuff piling up in your bathroom, it might be time to take a hard look at what you really need. Here are 12 bathroom items you should toss ASAP—your future self will thank you!
1. Expired Medications
First things first, check your medicine cabinet. If you’ve got old prescriptions or over-the-counter meds lurking in there, it’s time for a clean-out. Not only can expired medications lose their effectiveness, but they can also be dangerous. Seriously, that bottle of painkillers from two years ago isn’t doing anyone any good. Dispose of them properly—most pharmacies offer take-back programs for safe disposal.
2. Old Toothbrushes
We all know we should be changing our toothbrushes every three months, but how many of us actually do? If your toothbrush looks more like a sad little plant than a dental tool, it’s definitely time for a new one. And while you’re at it, don’t forget that toothbrush holder—it can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
3. Worn-Out Towels
That towel you’ve been using since college? If it’s frayed, faded, or has more holes than a cheese grater, it’s gotta go. Towels aren’t just for drying off; they should feel soft and cozy against your skin, not like sandpaper. Treat yourself to some new ones—they’ll elevate your bathroom game!
4. Makeup You Never Use
Let’s talk makeup. We’ve all bought that lipstick shade that looked amazing in the store but somehow never made it out of the drawer. If you haven’t used it in six months (or, let’s be honest, a year), it’s time to say goodbye. Old makeup can harbor bacteria and doesn’t give you the fresh look you’re going for. Plus, think of all the space you’ll free up for that new mascara you’ve been eyeing!
5. Skincare Products Past Their Prime
Just like makeup, skincare has an expiration date. If you’ve got creams and serums sitting around that smell funny or have changed color, toss them. Your skin deserves better than expired products! Invest in a few quality items that you know you’ll use regularly, and your bathroom shelf will look a lot more appealing.
6. Empty Bottles and Containers
How many empty shampoo bottles do you have in your shower right now? If you’ve got more than a couple, it’s time for a little decluttering session. They take up space and can make your bathroom feel chaotic. Grab a trash bag and get to work—your future self will love the extra room!
7. Ancient Hair Products
That half-empty bottle of hairspray from your 2015 prom? Yeah, it’s time to let it go. Hair products can lose their effectiveness over time and potentially harm your hair. If you’ve got styling products that haven’t seen the light of day in years, now’s the time to clean house.
8. Travel-Sized Samples
We all love a good hotel stay, and with it comes those adorable little travel-sized toiletries. But if they’re taking up prime real estate in your bathroom, it’s time to let them go. Unless you’re planning a last-minute getaway, those tiny bottles can probably be recycled or tossed without a second thought.
9. Old Razors
Let’s be honest: if you’ve had a razor for more than a few months, it’s probably time for a replacement. Dull blades can lead to nicks and cuts, and that’s not a fun way to start your day. Plus, most razors come with replacement cartridges, so keep your bathroom stocked and ditch the old ones!
10. Dried-Out Nail Polish
If you’ve got a collection of nail polish that resembles a science experiment gone wrong, it’s definitely time to clear some space. Dried-out polish isn’t just a pain to work with; it can also ruin your mani.
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